Book cover of Bad Dog

Book description



The differences between cats and dogs have never been funnier! In this hilarious new story from the illustrator of I Don't Want to Be a Frog, a little girl really, really wants a dog . . . but gets a cat instead!

"Look what I got for my birthday! A…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked Bad Dog as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

One of the best things about this book is the fabulous illustrations! Bold, bright, and very silly, they totally capture the essence of this very funny story about a little girl who desperately wants a dog. She is overjoyed with the ‘dog’ she gets for her birthday except, he won’t do anything dogs are supposed to do! He won’t come when he’s called, won’t go for walks, doesn’t like other dogs, etc. However, he is very good at climbing trees, (but won’t come down), likes to play in the fish water…doesn’t bark at the mailman, doesn’t have accidents on…

All the way through this book, the kid narrator complains about their “terrible dog.” It doesn’t come when it’s called, it won’t go for walks, and can’t do tricks. Of course, the young reader will quickly pick up on the fact that… it’s actually a cat. So the reader figures out something the narrator doesn’t know. The reader must discount things the narrator says that simply don’t make sense. That’s critical thinking. Also, the book is hilarious.

From Joyce's list on to improve kids’ critical thinking.

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